NRL 2 years ago

We wanted revenge on Taupau: Sharks

NEWCASTLE, AUSTRALIA - MAY 06: Martin Taupau of the Kiwis in action during the International Rugby League Trans Tasman Test match between the Australian Kangaroos and the New Zealand Kiwis at Hunter Stadium on May 6, 2016 in Newcastle, Australia. (Photo by Ashley Feder/Getty Images)

Cronulla coach Shane Flanagan says Martin Taupau would have had a target on his back had the Manly enforcer not been suspended for Saturday night's NRL showdown.

While happy to see the Sea Eagles back-rower sitting on the sidelines for the first of a three-game ban for a dangerous throw, Flanagan admitted many of his charges wanted a square-up for his ugly hit on Jack Bird earlier in the year.

Taupau escaped with just a one-game suspension for a swinging arm which concussed Bird in Manly's 22-12 round three win.